Local Politics

---

Ilford South Constituency

Background of Ilford South

The postcode IG2 6NQ is located in Ilford South, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Mike Gapes MP of the Labour/Co-operative party.

Ilford South is a parliamentary constituency located in the London Borough of Redbridge, historically known for its diverse population and socio-economic mix. Established in 1945, the constituency has predominantly been a Labour stronghold, although it has seen competitive periods. Since 1992, it has been consistently represented by Labour MPs, including the current MP Sam Tarry, elected in 2019.

The constituency is marked by significant ethnic diversity, with a large proportion of residents from South Asian, African, and Eastern European backgrounds. Ilford South features a relatively youthful demographic, with many families and young professionals residing in the area. It encompasses several neighbourhoods, including Ilford town centre, which is a hub of commercial activity and retail services.

Economically, Ilford South is characterised by a mix of affluence and areas with considerable socio-economic challenges. The local economy benefits from its proximity to Central London, supported by excellent transport links including the Elizabeth Line, facilitating commuter access. The region has a varied employment base, including retail, services, healthcare, and education sectors.

The electorate of Ilford South has shown active political engagement, with voter turnout varying significantly across elections but generally aligning with the national average. In the 2016 EU Referendum, Ilford South demonstrated a preference to remain in the European Union, reflecting the constituency's diverse and cosmopolitan nature. Approximately 55% of residents voted Remain, aligning it with many London constituencies which expressed similar sentiments.

Ilford South represents a microcosm of London's multicultural and economically varied landscape, with an electorate that has consistently favoured progressive and inclusive policies.

Brexit

Did Ilford South vote for Brexit?

Ilford South voted to leave the EU in 2016, reflecting a desire for greater control over immigration and decision-making. Residents may have been influenced by concerns around job competition, strain on public services, and sovereignty. Additionally, disillusionment with the political establishment and a desire for change could have swayed voters towards Brexit. The constituency's diverse population and economic challenges may have also played a role in shaping the decision to support leaving the EU. the vote in Ilford South reflected a complex mix of motivations and priorities among its residents.